Ohio State has produced numerous NBA talents, but only a few have been selected at the top of the draft. Notably, Greg Oden was the first overall pick in 2007, with Evan Turner and D’Angelo Russell going second. Dennis Hopson and Larry Siegfried were third picks, while Mike Conley Jr., Jim Jackson, and Kelvin Ransey were selected fourth.
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Freshman Anthony Thompson, entering the program as one of its most esteemed recruits, aims to join this elite group. The Lebanon, Ohio native is a consensus five-star prospect, ranked seventh nationally and first in Ohio by 247Sports. He is also Ohio State's first McDonald’s All-American since D’Angelo Russell in 2014. His performance supports the high expectations, as he averaged 24.9 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game during his senior year at Western Reserve Academy, shooting 47% from the field and 35% from three. On the Adidas 3SSB circuit, these numbers were impressive as well, with averages of 22.1 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.9 blocks, and 1.6 steals, while shooting 53% overall and 39% from beyond the arc.
What sets Thompson apart is not just his scoring ability but also his physical attributes. At 6-foot-9 and 215 pounds, with a wingspan of 7-foot-3, he possesses the stature of a forward who can shoot over defenders and create scoring opportunities. His mobility and length suggest a promising defensive upside.
Thompson is expected to play a significant role in his freshman season, noted coach Jake Diebler has previewed his key involvement. Forecasts indicate he is likely to start at small forward, providing opportunities to work alongside established players like John Mobley Jr., Justin Pippen, and Amare Bynum.
During Ohio State’s exhibitions in Puerto Rico, Thompson showcased his potential, scoring 14 points and gathering seven rebounds in one game and following up with 13 points and six rebounds in another. While these exhibition performances are not as significant as regular-season games, they highlighted his ability to contribute in various ways.
The main challenge ahead for Thompson is to translate his talent into consistent college performance. NBA scouting reports reflect optimism about his prospects, with Sports Illustrated projecting him to be a top-five to ten pick and suggesting that improvement in rebounding, passing, and defense could elevate him into the top three. Current draft rankings position him around the top of the lottery, with Tankathon and Bleacher Report both ranking him sixth.
A standout freshman season could shift the narrative significantly. If he emerges as a reliable double-digit scorer, demonstrates efficient shooting, defensively holds his own, and consistently creates scoring opportunities, the conversation will evolve from merely his lottery pick potential to how high he could be drafted.
To contend for Ohio State’s top three draft spots, Thompson would likely need to vie for Big Ten Freshman of the Year. Scoring will be vital, but the development of other aspects of his game will be critical. With his unique combination of height, scoring versatility, and defensive potential, Thompson presents a compelling NBA archetype. At just 18 years old, there is optimism that he may reach even greater heights. While he may not become Ohio State’s first or second overall pick, achieving a top-five selection and a place among the Buckeyes’ all-time highest-drafted players is well within the realm of possibility.